Rebel literature meet begins

From Friday morning, activists, enthusiasts, and audiences from all corners of the state began arriving at Malik Ambar Sahitya Nagari for the 19th Vidrohi Sahitya Sammelan (Rebel Literature Conference). As part of the event, the play "Shivaji Underground in Bhimnagar Mohalla" was staged for free, attracting a large crowd.

Vidrohi Cultural Movement State President Prof. Pratima Pardeshi alleged that the Delhi Marathi Literature Conference has become dependent on the BJP government. She claimed that what was once a political gathering has now turned into a government-backed and partisan event. Since 1999, the Vidrohi Marathi Sahitya Sammelan has been organized in opposition to the All India Brahminical, Capitalist, and Patriarchal Marathi Literature Conference. Past editions in Nashik, Udgir, Wardha, and Amalner saw significant financial investments but faced embarrassment due to empty chairs. Now, according to Pardeshi, the mainstream literary meet has sought refuge under Delhi’s political patronage. In contrast, the Vidrohi Literature Conference remains deeply rooted in Marathi soil, fearlessly challenging inequality and exploitative cultural structures while upholding the ideologies of Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar.

At Amkhas Maidan, a grand Malik Ambar Sahitya Nagari has been set up with two large pavilions, while three additional halls will host programs for children and youth. Over two days, six-panel discussions, 14 group discussions, and a special lecture will take place. Literary events will feature Kavya Pahat (Poetry at Dawn), a Ghazal conference, and four poetry sessions, alongside interactive discussions between literary figures, intellectuals, and journalists. Cultural performances will include tribal songs, folk arts, and a special Maharashtra Darshan showcase. Storytelling programs, two play readings, three monologue performances, and two one-act plays are also scheduled. Young artists presenting rap songs are expected to be a major highlight.

Additionally, eight special art galleries will feature live demonstrations and exhibits of visual poetry, sculpture, calligraphy, painting, artistic signboards, rangoli, and caricatures. Two thematic poster exhibitions on "The Constitution" and "Muslims in the Freedom Movement" will also be on display.